"If you take melatonin supplements to help you nod off, take note: Many brands are inaccurately labeled, containing much less -- or much more -- of the sleep hormone than indicated, a new study reports."

Responses

Melatonin, along with valerian root, are the two most commonly recommended non-prescription sleep aids. As you point out, they are not regulated as drugs so buyer beware. If you do try them, I suggest buying reputable brands from reliable sources.

I have used melatonin before, and it has helped. Somewhat. It is not a long term solution for me. It typically is recommended for jet lag, and for blind persons who cannot otherwise use light to regulate their circadian rhythm.

Also parents beware, do not give melatonin to kids as an alleged "natural" sleep aid. Melatonin really is a systemic hormone with unknown effects on pre-pubescent children.

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